Sales Tax Relief for Over-the-Counter Medication

Madison, WI — Senator Jeff Smith (D–Brunswick) and Representative Joe Sheehan (D–Sheboygan) have introduced new legislation to exempt over-the-counter medication from sales or use tax statewide.

“Affordability has always been a priority of mine in the healthcare industry,” said Senator Smith. “This is a commonsense idea for people to cope with rising costs.”

“We need to move in the direction of lowering costs for Wisconsin families,” said Representative Sheehan. “Sales tax exemptions for over-the-counter drugs promotes basic healthcare affordability.”

Medication, like most basic necessities, has continued to get more expensive. Over-the-counter medication is a standard part of healthcare for many, and is subject to sales and use taxes, adding yet another fee to the already onerous cost of healthcare. Wisconsinites deserve relief at a time when their health should be our number one priority in the Capitol.

The legislation, LRB-6038, provides that relief. This bill creates a state and local sales and use tax exemption for the sale of over-the-counter drugs. No longer will Wisconsinites be faced with an added tax for over-the-counter medication.

The bill was circulated to members of the legislature with a February 12th deadline for co-sponsorship.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.